Expressing gratitude in the midst of a season where you are feeling overwhelmed (and I so appreciate all our clergy brethren and sisteren during Advent) can help you refocus on why you went into ministry in the first place.

I don’t know of any church who brags:
 
“We are the unfriendly church!”
 
Of course, everyone thinks they are the friendliest, the most hospitable church. But what do these churches really practice? Well…let me tell you about my recent experiences.

Giving grace, lots and lots of grace, is what we as a faith-filled people are called to do. That doesn’t mean acquiescing or agreeing. In fact, we are also called to keep that fire-in-the-belly and as John Lewis said, “Get in good trouble, necessary trouble.”

It’s no surprise that people are worried about the economy and inflation. Heck, one of the main drivers of the Presidential election, among other things, was the high price of a dozen eggs.
 
How is this going to affect you and your congregation?

Do not, do NOT let that pre-Christmas panic set in (at least not yet). You still have time! Yes – you have time to learn your solo for the Christmas Eve service. You’ve never sung an aria from The Messiah? No sweat! You’ve still got a month (almost).

I’m not going to let fear overtake me, even though I have concerns. I am not going to let fear overtake me, no matter what happens.

Elections come and go. They are consequential. There’s no denying it. And some, like this one, feel more important than others. But God calls us, the saints-to-be, not to be a people of fear or division. God calls us to be light unto the world.

Even in the development/generosity world terms are thrown around as if everyone should know what they mean.
 
So, in that vein, here are six development terms you should know…

“The photo you used of that iconic George Floyd mural to advertise your class? It was copyrighted. We just got a fine for $250.”
 
“What?” I said incredulously. And that was the end of the conversation.

Your newsletter, whatever form it takes, tells a story. It’s a story about you, your church or nonprofit, and how your organization is changing lives.